REQUEST FOR INFORMATION FOR LUNAR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PAYLOADS FOR EXPANDED LUNAR LANDING OPPORTUNITIES
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for Lunar Science and Technology Payloads to support expanded lunar landing opportunities. This RFI aims to inform NASA's strategy for filling government-provided payload allocations on Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) missions, which are projected to increase to a near-monthly cadence starting in 2027. Responses are due May 14, 2026.
Scope of Work
NASA is seeking details on potential lunar payloads from industry, universities, non-profits, individuals, and government agencies. Of particular interest are self-funded payload teams that can deliver completed flight units to CLPS and perform their own operations on the lunar surface. Payloads should ideally align with NASA's Moon to Mars objectives and technology gaps. The RFI provides guidance on CLPS payload accommodation, including design tenets, environmental verification standards, and specific design considerations.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought
- Set-Aside: None specified (RFI for planning purposes)
- Response Due: May 14, 2026 (extended via Amendment 0001)
- Published: April 20, 2026
Evaluation
NASA will evaluate RFI responses to inform its approach to filling payload allocations. Respondents have the option to list their proposed payloads on a public Lunar Payload Database, fostering connections between payload teams, funders, and CLPS delivery providers.
Additional Notes
This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a commitment for NASA to take action or award a contract. NASA will not pay for information submitted. Responses are subject to restrictions on bilateral relationships with China, as per SEC. 526 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024. Submissions are made via the NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES), primarily through an electronic cover page with specific questions and an optional 5-page PDF.